Monday, July 27, 2015

ANF VI: Theonas

If the other "of Alexandria" minor writers are unimpressive, Theonas is a stand out. This may of course be because we have more fragments from him, and so more of his writings pop out. It may be because his writings are later and so the faith is more developed. Or it may be because his writings are the writings of someone else--a better theologian/writer. In any case, his letter to one of the Emperor's chamberlain's is worth reading both as good theology and as an interesting view of how a civil servant can be a good Christian, even under the emperor Diocletian.

Discharge the official duties to which you are severally appointed with the utmost fear of God and affection to your prince, and perfect carefulness. Consider that every command of the emperor which does not offend God has proceeded from God Himself; and execute it in love as well as in fear, and with all cheerfulness. (2)

About Me

I am Assistant Professor of Political Science at Southwest Baptist University in Bolivar, Missouri, where I live with my wife. I have a PhD in Political Theory from The Catholic University of America in Washington DC. My dissertation was on the political theory of Jonathan Edwards (the theologian, not the psychic or the musician).